Why These Rounds Matter

In IFAA-style field archery, three rounds form the backbone of many outdoor competitions: Field, Hunter and Animal. Each brings a different challenge — and in Scotland each also brings the challenge of weather.

Field Round
The Black & White Classic

Target: black centre (5), white ring (4), black outer (3).

Distances: marked — you’ll know how far you’re shooting.

Layouts: straight shots, fan shots and walk-ups may appear depending on the course design.

Scottish note: on bright days the white ring glows. On foggy days it can feel like the target is hiding from you on purpose.

Hunter Round
The All-Black Beast

Target: all black with a white centre spot. Same 5–4–3 scoring as Field.

Distances: marked, often chosen to sit awkwardly between “nice” reference points.

Scottish note: black target + shaded woodland = the purest test of “Can you actually see what you’re aiming at?”

Animal Round
Hitting the Critters (On Paper)

Animal faces include a kill zone and a wound zone. You shoot up to three arrows and scores drop by arrow order and peg position. First-arrow accuracy is everything.

Scottish note: some clubs use locally themed animal faces. If you see a cardboard stag that’s part of the course — not a meal plan.

Strategy Shift

• Field: consistency, ring control, calm execution
• Hunter: light reading, aiming discipline, patience
• Animal: first-shot focus and clean decision-making